20 Creamy Slow Cooker Oatmeal Recipes for Busy Mornings

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Mornings can be chaotic, especially when you’re short on time. But what if you could wake up to a warm, comforting bowl of oatmeal that’s ready and waiting for you? With these 20 creamy slow cooker oatmeal recipes, you can! From classic flavors like apple cinnamon and peanut butter banana to more unique options like pumpkin spice and chai spiced, there’s something for everyone in this collection.

By using your slow cooker to prepare oatmeal overnight, you can save time in the morning and still enjoy a delicious, filling breakfast. Plus, these recipes are perfect for busy weekdays or lazy Sundays. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or savory starts, we’ve got you covered with these creamy, dreamy slow cooker oatmeal recipes.

Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and easy breakfast that’s also delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/4 cup diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Gala)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine oats, water or milk, apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg on top of the oatmeal.
4. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings such as chopped nuts, raisins, or a drizzle of honey.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Creamy Coconut Milk Oatmeal with Berries

Start your day with a nutritious and delicious bowl of creamy oatmeal infused with the richness of coconut milk and the sweetness of mixed berries. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch that’s both healthy and indulgent.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or plant-based milk
– 1/4 cup canned full-fat coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries), for serving

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or plant-based milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the oats are creamy, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the coconut milk, honey or maple syrup (if using), and salt. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Serve the oatmeal warm, topped with fresh mixed berries.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Peanut Butter Banana Slow Cooker Oatmeal

Start your day with a deliciously comforting bowl of oatmeal infused with the sweet and nutty flavors of peanut butter and ripe bananas. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and easy breakfast solution.

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Add the oats, sliced banana, and peanut butter to a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the milk and add a pinch of salt.
3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
4. Stir well before serving. Optional: top with additional sliced banana, chopped nuts, or honey.

Cooking Time: 1-3 hours

Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal with Pecans

Start your day off right with a bowl of creamy pumpkin spice oatmeal, topped with crunchy pecans. This autumn-inspired breakfast is perfect for the fall season.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1 tablespoon canned pumpkin puree
– Pinch of salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Optional: whipped cream or additional toppings (honey, maple syrup, etc.)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree and brown sugar until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and top with chopped pecans.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Blueberry Maple Slow Cooker Oats

Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of slow-cooked oats infused with sweet blueberries and the richness of maple syrup. This easy recipe is perfect for busy mornings or as a relaxing breakfast treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Add oats, milk, water, maple syrup, honey, and vanilla extract to a slow cooker.
2. Stir in blueberries and salt.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve warm, topped with additional blueberries if desired.

Tips:

– Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor and texture.
– Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your taste.
– Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Chocolate Hazelnut Oatmeal

Start your day with a creamy and indulgent bowl of oatmeal infused with the deep flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts. This recipe is perfect for a chilly morning or as a comforting afternoon treat.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid.
4. Stir in the melted butter and chopped hazelnuts.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Slow Cooker Peach Almond Oatmeal

Start your day with a deliciously warm and comforting bowl of oatmeal infused with the sweetness of peaches and crunch of almonds. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy mornings or as a healthy snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup diced fresh peaches (about 2-3 peaches)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Add oats, almond milk, peaches, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
3. Stir in sliced almonds and season with salt.
4. Serve warm, topped with additional sliced almonds if desired.

Cooking Time: 1-4 hours

Carrot Cake Oatmeal with Cream Cheese Swirl

Start your day with a twist on traditional oatmeal by incorporating the warm spices and sweet flavors of carrot cake. This Carrot Cake Oatmeal with Cream Cheese Swirl is a delightful breakfast treat that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk
– 1/2 cup grated carrots
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Chopped walnuts or pecans for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the oats and water/milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the grated carrots, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and melted butter until smooth.
5. Spoon the oatmeal mixture into bowls and top with dollops of the cream cheese swirl. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Oatmeal

Start your day off right with this comforting and flavorful oatmeal recipe, infused with the sweetness of brown sugar and the warmth of cinnamon.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried fruit for topping

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
4. Serve hot, topped with your choice of nuts or dried fruit if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Slow Cooker Chai Spiced Oatmeal

Start your day off right with this comforting and aromatic slow cooker oatmeal recipe infused with the flavors of chai spices. This easy-to-make breakfast is perfect for busy mornings when you need a warm and nourishing start.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (or a combination)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon black tea leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add all the ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir and fluff before serving.

Tips:

– Adjust the amount of spices to your liking.
– Add some sliced banana, nuts, or honey for extra flavor and texture.

Strawberries and Cream Oatmeal

Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast that combines the freshness of strawberries with the creaminess of oatmeal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has thickened.
3. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Fold in the sliced strawberries.
5. Top with whipped cream and a pinch of salt.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Vanilla Bean Oatmeal with Fresh Figs

Start your day off right with this simple yet indulgent Vanilla Bean Oatmeal with Fresh Figs recipe. The creamy oatmeal is infused with the warmth of vanilla beans, while fresh figs add natural sweetness and a pop of color to this delightful breakfast dish.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (optional)
– 1-2 fresh figs, sliced
– Pinch of brown sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, salt, and vanilla extract. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. If using vanilla bean paste, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
4. Serve the oatmeal hot, topped with sliced fresh figs and a pinch of brown sugar if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Slow Cooker Gingerbread Oatmeal

Start your day off right with this comforting and aromatic slow cooker oatmeal recipe, infused with the spices of gingerbread. Perfect for a chilly morning or as a soothing afternoon treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add oats, milk, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in dried cranberries, if using.
4. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings (e.g., chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or whipped cream).

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Almond Joy Inspired Oatmeal

Start your day with a delicious and unique oatmeal recipe inspired by the classic Almond Joy candy bar. This creamy, coconut-filled bowl is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (your choice)
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, unsweetened shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in honey until dissolved.
5. Top with chopped almonds and a pinch of sea salt.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Pina Colada Slow Cooker Oats

Start your day with a delicious and refreshing twist on traditional oatmeal. This Pina Colada Slow Cooker Oats recipe combines the creamy sweetness of pineapple and coconut with the convenience of a slow cooker.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– Pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, pineapple juice, honey, and salt to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in shredded coconut and cinnamon (if using).
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. In the morning, stir well and serve with your favorite toppings, such as sliced pineapple, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Cooking Time: 2-6 hours

Slow Cooker Cherry Almond Oatmeal

Start your day with a deliciously comforting bowl of slow-cooked oatmeal infused with the sweetness of cherries and crunch of almonds. This easy recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and nutritious breakfast.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon almond butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: sliced almonds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add oats, water or milk, and dried cherries to a slow cooker.
2. Mix in almond butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, topped with additional sliced almonds if desired.

Tips:

– You can also add chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to customize the recipe to your taste.
– If using a non-dairy milk, you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the type and brand used.

Maple Walnut Oatmeal

Start your day off right with this deliciously comforting oatmeal recipe, infused with the sweet flavors of maple syrup and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for a chilly morning or a cozy afternoon treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low; cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until creamy and tender.
3. Stir in the maple syrup and salt.
4. Add the chopped walnuts and stir until combined.
5. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat.
6. Serve warm, with optional vanilla extract if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Slow Cooker Spiced Pear Oatmeal

Start your day with a comforting bowl of slow-cooked oatmeal infused with the sweet and spicy flavors of pears, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
4. Fluff the oatmeal with a fork before serving.

Tips:

– Use fresh pears for the best flavor and texture.
– Adjust the amount of sugar and spices to your taste.
– Serve warm, topped with additional brown sugar, chopped nuts, or a dollop of whipped cream (optional).

Raspberry White Chocolate Oatmeal

Raspberry White Chocolate Oatmeal: A Sweet and Fruity Breakfast Treat

Start your day with a delicious and healthy oatmeal recipe infused with the sweetness of white chocolate and the tartness of raspberries. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack that will keep you going all morning.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup fresh raspberries, chopped
– 1 ounce white chocolate chips, melted
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid.
3. Stir in the honey, chopped raspberries, and melted white chocolate until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Slow Cooker Savory Mushroom and Spinach Oatmeal

Start your day with a warm, comforting bowl of oatmeal infused with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and spinach. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a nutritious breakfast that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, or a combination)
– 1/4 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine oats, water or broth, mushrooms, spinach, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Summary

Start your day off right with these 20 creamy slow cooker oatmeal recipes. From classic flavors like apple cinnamon and peanut butter banana to decadent treats like chocolate hazelnut and strawberry shortcake-inspired oats, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for busy mornings when you need a nutritious breakfast on-the-go. Simply add your favorite ingredients to the slow cooker in the evening, wake up to a warm and comforting bowl of oatmeal, and enjoy the creamy goodness. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, these recipes will keep you satisfied until lunchtime.

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